Journal of Bethesda visit 1

「Bethesda Diary — A Face Beyond the Beautiful Forest」

By Young B. Lee

Already, a week has quickly passed since I arrived at my son's home in Bethesda. I have had time to walk through the woods every morning, but today was the first time my wife could join me on the trail. Today’s walk seemed even more beautiful. Taking the path to the right, there were people commuting to D.C. by bicycle; taking the left path, the forest grows deeper and richer.

These trees that especially catch the eye were not planted artificially, but are natural trees—grand giants boasting a history of at least over a hundred years—that lift our spirits and bring us pure joy. I casually remarked to my wife, “Even in such a beautiful town, there must be people who are suffering, right?” My wife, who was fully immersed in the beauty of nature, agreed with my words.

As the grandchildren grew up, my son looked for a good school district and moved from D.C., near his workplace, to the neighboring city of Bethesda. I heard that the school district is good, but I felt a deeper attraction to the name of this city. That is because Bethesda is the name of the famous pool in the Bible where the sick were healed.

Curious to know if there was any story passed down behind how the city came to be named ‘Bethesda,’ I looked into it and found that Bethesda means ‘House of Mercy’ or ‘House of Grace.’ It is said that the city was named Bethesda upon the recommendation of a pastor.

Looking at it that way, Bethesda—nestled in a beautiful natural environment—is a city of health and mercy, a house of grace. Bethesda truly feels like a deeply meaningful name. Furthermore, the fact that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Walter Medical Center are located in Bethesda today seems very fitting for the city's name.

After finishing my morning walk and returning home, as I quietly caught my breath, the vivid image of a woman I met on the walking trail a few days ago came to mind. She had a pretty appearance and her clothes looked neat. Out of habit, I greeted her in a gentle voice, “Hello, have a nice day!” But there was no answer, and her expression looked deeply troubled. Instead of shoes, she was wearing cloth indoor slippers.

And just like that, she passed quickly by. But my heart felt heavy and uncomfortable. There was nothing I could do.

Bethesda is a beautiful and prosperous city meaning ‘House of Mercy.’

This morning too, the century-old trees formed a beautiful forest. However, as I walked along that forest path, what came to mind was the face of the woman who had passed by in silence the morning before last.

I cannot know what her story is. But every time I recall that face, a corner of my heart aches.

I only hope that the beautiful forest of Bethesda can bring even a small comfort to her as well.

Bethesda

Maryland

November 5, 2026